Otha Larry Lamm

Otha “Larry” Lamm, 74, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, November 25th, surrounded by his beloved family. He entered his eternal rest after a life marked by love, hard work, and devotion to his family, neighbors, and community. A celebration of life will be held on Friday, November 29th at 11am at Bailey Baptist Church, 6646 Deans Street, Bailey, with Rev. Daniel Blackburn presiding. Family and friends are welcome to gather and share memories following the service in the Bailey Baptist fellowship hall. Burial will follow at F. W. Stone Memorial Cemetery, 9009 Stone Heritage Road, Middlesex at 2:30pm.

 Born in Wilson in 1950 to Tallie and Bessie Mae Lamm, Larry grew up in Bailey, where he developed a passion for sports, particularly basketball and softball, which he played for many years. He met the love of his life, Peggy Stone, while still in high school, and the two were married while Peggy was attending college. Their love story continued for more than five decades, a testament to their deep connection and unwavering commitment to one another and to their Lord and Savior.

 Together, they raised two beautiful daughters, Whitney and Olivia, who were the pride and joy of their lives. A dedicated father, Larry took great joy in attending his daughters' sporting events and was always their biggest supporter. He coached both Whitney and Olivia, sharing his passion for sports and teaching them the values of teamwork, hard work, and perseverance. Larry’s commitment to youth sports extended beyond his own family—he was also instrumental in the community, serving as a coach and co-founder of the Bailey Basketball League. For 14 years, they devoted each Saturday in January, February, and March to weekly practices, games, and all-star tournaments.

 A hardworking and successful farmer, Larry worked the land for many years, cultivating tobacco, cotton, and other seasonal crops. His dedication to his work was evident in his success, as he was recognized by Phillip Morris several years in a row as a Top 2, 10, and 15 percent producer. Larry also made a lasting impact on his fellow farmers by encouraging and supporting the next generation. He generously provided young farmers in the area with tobacco barns at no cost when he purchased new ones, always offering a helping hand to those starting out in the industry.

 Larry retired from farming in 2018 after a long and fruitful career, but his legacy of hard work, kindness, and generosity lives on in his family and the community. Larry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother. He leaves behind his loving wife of 51 years, Peggy Stone Lamm of the home; daughters Whitney Lamm Poper and husband, Nick of Dunn, and Olivia Lamm of Bailey; granddaughters, Tallie Anne Poper (5) and Ellie Stone Poper (20 months) of Dunn, who brought him immense joy and pride. He is also survived by his brother, Billy Lamm and wife, Debbie of Matthews; sister-in-law Louise Lamm of Bailey; nephews Brent Lamm and wife, Vallyn of Raleigh, and John Lamm of Charlotte; and special great nieces Madison and Meghan Lamm of Raleigh. Larry’s extended family, including his cherished sisters- and brothers-in-laws, Joey and Linda Bailey, Dianna Langley, Spencer Stone, Robbie and Lisa Stone, and Alan Stone, were a source of great comfort and support throughout his life.

 Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Tallie Wilbur Lamm, Sr. and Bessie Mae Lamm, and his brother, Tallie Wilbur Lamm, Jr.

 Throughout his life, Larry was known for his gentle strength, his love for his family, and his generous spirit. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

 In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Bailey Baptist Church, as it was dear to Larry's heart, in his memory. May his memory be a blessing to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

 Condolences directed to Joyner’s Funeral Home and Crematory at www.joyners.net.